"The Cleveland Foundation is pleased to provide a second phase of support for the Center for Proteomics and Bioinformatics at the School of Medicine. The Center has demonstrated real impact to the health of individuals and to the health of the community through its advancement of new diagnostics and therapies. It is an important driver in the continued growth of Cleveland’s leadership in the biotech sector," said Robert Eckardt, Dr. PH, Senior Vice President of the Cleveland Foundation.

This funding allows the university to advance its leadership role in developing customized technologies and research that will make a significant impact on human health. The grant further lays the groundwork for attracting biotech start-up companies to the area.

The grant will also allow the center to develop its program in proteomic medicine. The purpose of this program is to identify and develop novel diagnostic tests to help in the management of chronic diseases. By combining a solid understanding of genetic and proteomic data from patients, investigators will be able to determine more precisely which individuals and groups are more susceptible to certain conditions. Ultimately, it will allow them to develop appropriate treatment and prevention plans based on individual makeup.

"This grant underscores the remarkable progress made by Mark Chance, Ph.D., director of the Center for Proteomics and Bioinformatics, and his team," said Pamela B. Davis, M.D., Ph.D., dean of the School of Medicine. "Their research in protein modifications is a key component of our efforts to enhance the personalization of medical treatments and to enhance diagnostic capabilities. The continued support of the Cleveland Foundation for proteomics research will allow us to further build upon our strengths as we usher in a new era of treatment and prevention."

As one of the largest cumulative donors to Case Western Reserve, the Cleveland Foundation consistently partners with the university on projects that significantly improve the quality of life in our community. In 2005, the foundation’s $5 million grant, one of its largest awards ever, launched the Center for Proteomics and Bioinformatics and provided support for research in immunobiology.

"We are pleased that the Cleveland Foundation has once again recognized the potential of this center to save and enhance people’s lives," said Case Western Reserve President Barbara R. Snyder. "The foundation’s support is critical to our efforts to translate fundamental research to treatments, which in turn help drives economic development of our region."

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